AFCON 2027 qualifiers: Mohamed Ouahbi demands more from Morocco despite Gabon victory

Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi says his side must improve their finishing despite being pleased with their 2-0 victory over Gabon in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

The Atlas Lions controlled Friday’s Group A encounter at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, creating several chances before Soufiane Rahimi came off the bench to score the second goal.

“I am very satisfied with the result of this match,” Wahbi said during the post-match press conference. “We played well, we won, we completely controlled the game, we created many chances, and we could have scored more goals.”

Ouahbi calls for greater efficiency

Despite Morocco’s convincing victory, Ouahbi believes there is still room for improvement, particularly in front of goal.

“We were convincing, but we can perform better. We demand a lot from ourselves and we will continue to improve.”

The Morocco coach said his players need to make better decisions when opportunities arise.

“We must make better use of the opportunities available to us and make decisions simply,” he added.

Rahimi praised after scoring from bench

Ouahbi also explained his decision to start Yasser Zoubir, pointing to the youngster’s form for Spanish club Racing Santander.

The coach praised Rahimi after the forward came off the bench to score Morocco’s second goal.

“We know his abilities. He is a fast and strong player, and all the players are important to us, and there is no hierarchy among them.”

Ouahbi also highlighted the contribution of the younger players, particularly Ali Muammar and Abdullah Wazan.

Wazan, he said, “entered at a difficult moment in the match, but he too showed great abilities.”

Aguerd and Diop provide defensive solidity

Ouahbi was also pleased with the partnership between Nayef Aguerd and Issa Diop at the heart of Morocco’s defence.

He praised the understanding between the two defenders, saying their familiarity helped provide the back line with the necessary solidity.

Morocco kept Gabon scoreless as they began their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign with three points.

Morocco prepare for away challenge

Ouahbi has already turned his attention to the remaining qualifiers, stressing the importance of preparing properly for matches away from home.

“We have a long trip to South Africa ahead of us. I told the players that, but we will focus on what we can do. These away matches will help us develop and gain more experience.”

The Morocco coach says his team will look to maintain their winning momentum in their next qualifier and intends to select the strongest available line-up as they chase a second successive victory.